“She’s a bloody little beauty!”

Those were the words of harness racing trainer-driver Rickie Alchin after claiming Group 1 glory with his American Ideal filly Soho Rhapsody tonight at Bathurst.

The pair caused a boilover in the $100,000 Gold Bracelet Final to give Alchin his second Group 1 win as a driver.

At odds of $33 Soho Rhapsody steamed past the favourite Just Hope to win by a comfortable length in a mile rate of 1:53.3

Alchin had only driven this three-year-old filly twice before in race conditions and the decision to take the reins paid off.

“In the big races I usually like to put on a driver that goes around a lot more than I do but I thought I would have a crack myself tonight and it paid off,” said Alchin.

“I’ve always liked this filly and it’s great to get a win like this with her and for owner Rob Watson who has given me a few horses here and there over the years.

“She’s such a lovely little filly, she’s no trouble at home and she’s a bloody little beauty.”

Settled in the running line after drawing barrier nine, Just Hope led the field with Madrid racing outside the leader.

The quarters were clocked in 27.4, 30.1, 27.2 and 28.4 seconds.

Soho Rhapsody extended her record to four wins and five placings in 12 starts.

She is out of the Bettors Delight mare Delightful Jade who Alchin also raced.

Alchin has made a name for himself as a respected horse breaker over the years.

Yet, despite building a career educating young horses the 34-year-old has trained 317 winners and driven 450 winners.

“I’m lucky to have great help back home and Rick Hunt is one of those people . . . he couldn’t make it here tonight but I couldn’t have done this without him.”

To view the results from Bathurst on Friday click here.

By Amanda Rando for Harnesslink